Halloween is just around the corner and what do dogs like more than getting into the cupboard and sniffing out the Halloween candy? Most pet owners know that chocolate is toxic to dogs, but did you know that xylitol-containing gum/candy/baked goods, macadamia nuts and raisins are also potentially toxic to dogs?

What is xylitol and why is it bad for dogs?

Xylitol is a common sweetener used in sugar-free gum, candy, mints, baked goods and oral-care products. While safe in humans, xylitol causes an unsafe drop in blood sugar in animals. Xylitol tricks the pancreas into releasing a large surge of insulin which causes a sudden drop in blood glucose. In large doses, xylitol can cause liver toxicity/failure and death.

How much does my dog have to ingest in order to be dangerous?

A 10 pound (4.5 kg) dog can eat as little as a stick and a half of gum to become hypoglycemic. The dose of xylitol that can cause hypoglycemia is anything greater than 0.1 grams per kilogram of body weight. A typical stick of gum will contain 0.3 to 0.4 grams of xylitol. Anything above 0.5 grams per kilogram of body weight of xylitol may potentially cause liver failure.

What are the clinical signs of xylitol toxicity and how fast do they occur?

Signs of xylitol toxicity can occur as quickly as 30 minutes after ingestion. These signs can include vomiting, weakness, depression, ataxia, collapse and seizures. Some dogs may be asymptomatic up to 72 hours post-ingestion. In these cases, the animal may be experiencing liver toxicity without hypoglycemia.

What do I do if I think my dog has ingested xylitol-containing gum or candy?

Seek veterinary attention as soon as possible. There they will induce vomiting, place him/her on IV fluids with dextrose for at least 24 hours and monitor blood glucose, electrolytes, liver enzyme activities and blood clotting times.

Why are macadamia nuts toxic to dogs and what are the signs of toxicity?

Link:
The ghoulish facts about Halloween candy and your dog